09 Januari 2015

Philippines Needs More Than Php90B to Fund Second Phase of AFP Modernization

09 Januari 2015

DND need more than Php 90.858 billion to modernize the military during 2018 to 2023. (photo : ravell)MANILA (PNA) -- A ranking Department of National Defense (DND) official announced that the country may need more than Php90.858 billion to modernize the military during the second phase of its modernization which will start this 2018 to 2023.This was disclosed by DND undersecretary for finance, munitions, and material Fernando Manalo Wednesday.The former earlier presented status of modernization projects under what the DND calls the "First Horizon."This started 2014 and will end on 2017.Under this timeline, the government is spending Php90.858 billion to buy warships, fighter jets, helicopters, an air defense radar system, other defensive equipment.This also includes upgrades and improvements for existing bases.Manalo said that most of these defense program are ongoing with the government demonstrating its capability to fund these projects.The "Second Horizon" is slated for 2018 to 2023 while the "Third Horizon" will run on 2024 to 2028.Manalo declined to specify what types of equipment will be acquired under the second horizon, but said these will mostly be for disaster response and protecting territories in the disputed West Philippine Sea."It is sufficient (to say) we are heavy on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and protecting our interest in the West Philippine Sea," he said.Manalo hinted that more fighter jets may be acquired under the "Second Horizon", stating that the current 12 being bought from South Korea is "way way below than what is needed by the Air Force."(PNA)